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Lansdowne, PA
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August 2021

Tuesday, 31 August 2021 00:00

Exercises That May Boost Circulation

Reduced blood flow in the lower limbs can be a common problem as you get older. If you have poor circulation in your feet and ankles, exercising regularly may help. There are a variety of exercises that are tailored to your specific needs and abilities that you can do. Taking regular walks is just one low-cost way to get moving. You can also exercise your legs with stretches while laying down, sitting, or standing. If you sit at a desk for work, you might incorporate some quick heel and toe raises. To do this exercise, sit with both feet flat on the floor in front of you. Raise both of your heels and hold for three seconds. Repeat this 10 times. Next, raise just your toes and hold for three seconds. Repeat 10 times. For more information on how to increase lower limb circulation, please consult with a podiatrist. 

While poor circulation itself isn’t a condition; it is a symptom of another underlying health condition you may have. If you have any concerns with poor circulation in your feet contact Dr. George Yarnell of Pennsylvania. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Poor Circulation in the Feet

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) can potentially lead to poor circulation in the lower extremities. PAD is a condition that causes the blood vessels and arteries to narrow. In a linked condition called atherosclerosis, the arteries stiffen up due to a buildup of plaque in the arteries and blood vessels. These two conditions can cause a decrease in the amount of blood that flows to your extremities, therefore resulting in pain.

Symptoms

Some of the most common symptoms of poor circulation are:

  • Numbness
  • Tingling
  • Throbbing or stinging pain in limbs
  • Pain
  • Muscle Cramps

Treatment for poor circulation often depends on the underlying condition that causes it. Methods for treatment may include insulin for diabetes, special exercise programs, surgery for varicose veins, or compression socks for swollen legs.

As always, see a podiatrist as he or she will assist in finding a regimen that suits you. A podiatrist can also prescribe you any needed medication. 

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Lansdowne, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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Tuesday, 24 August 2021 00:00

How Can I Heal a Blister Quickly?

Blisters are fluid-filled bubbles that form between the top-most layer of skin and the layer beneath it. Blisters typically develop on the feet as a protective measure for your skin in response to friction. They often heal best when they are left alone, but some blisters can be quite painful or pop due to friction. You can help the blister heal by covering it loosely with a bandage or blister pad. Don’t touch or pop the blister, as this can expose the raw skin underneath it to germs and increase the risk of infection. If your blister continues to be very painful, does not seem to be healing well on its own, is showing signs of infection, or if you have diabetes, it is suggested that you seek the care of a podiatrist.

Blisters may appear as a single bubble or in a cluster. They can cause a lot of pain and may be filled with pus, blood, or watery serum. If your feet are hurting, contact Dr. George Yarnell of Pennsylvania. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Foot Blisters

Foot blisters are often the result of friction. This happens due to the constant rubbing from shoes, which can lead to pain.

What Are Foot Blisters?

A foot blister is a small fluid-filled pocket that forms on the upper-most layer of the skin. Blisters are filled with clear fluid and can lead to blood drainage or pus if the area becomes infected.

Symptoms

(Blister symptoms may vary depending on what is causing them)

  • Bubble of skin filled with fluid
  • Redness
  • Moderate to severe pain
  • Itching

Prevention & Treatment

In order to prevent blisters, you should be sure to wear comfortable shoes with socks that cushion your feet and absorb sweat. Breaking a blister open may increase your chances of developing an infection. However, if your blister breaks, you should wash the area with soap and water immediately and then apply a bandage to the affected area. If your blisters cause severe pain it is important that you call your podiatrist right away.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Lansdowne, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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Wednesday, 18 August 2021 00:00

Why Live with Pain and Numbness in Your Feet?

Suffering from this type of pain? You may have the foot condition known as Morton's neuroma. Morton's neuroma may develop as a result of ill-fitting footwear and existing foot deformities. We can help.

Published in Blog
Tuesday, 17 August 2021 00:00

What Is Used to Treat Toenail Fungus?

Fungal toenail infections can be unsightly, causing the nails to thicken and become brittle, crumbly, and discolored. In severe cases, the nail may separate from the nail bed, which can be painful. People with diabetes should also be wary of toenail fungus, as it can lead to complications if left untreated. A podiatrist may prescribe various medications to treat toenail fungus. Topical medications are applied directly to the nail, often in the form of a cream or medicated nail polish. Oral medications are taken by mouth and help new, uninfected nails to grow in. Sometimes, a podiatrist may prescribe both treatments simultaneously, however, it can take months for an infection to clear up. If you have toenail fungus, please consult with a podiatrist to determine what treatments may be right for you. 

For more information about treatment, contact Dr. George Yarnell of Pennsylvania. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Toenail Fungus Treatment

Toenail fungus is a condition that affects many people and can be especially hard to get rid of. Fortunately, there are several methods to go about treating and avoiding it.

Antifungals & Deterrence

Oral antifungal medicine has been shown to be effective in many cases. It is important to consult with a podiatrist to determine the proper regiment for you, or potentially explore other options.

Applying foot powder on the feet and shoes helps keep the feet free of moisture and sweat.

Sandals or open toed shoes – Wearing these will allow air movement and help keep feet dry. They also expose your feet to light, which fungus cannot tolerate. Socks with moisture wicking material also help as well.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Lansdowne, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

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Many runners know the benefits of stretching the calves. This can have a positive impact on the Achilles tendon, and may gradually lengthen the calf muscles. This can improve walking style, or gait, which is needed to maintain standing alignment. Research has indicated that stretching the calves may improve specific foot conditions that can include plantar fasciitis and bunions. An effective stretch for the calves can be done by standing on a step, and lowering one heel at a time, until a gentle stretch is felt. Additionally, when leaning into the palms that are against a wall, and keeping one leg bent and the other leg straight behind, this is known as a calf stretch that many runners practice. If you would like to know the benefits of stretching the calves, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist.

Why Stretching Is Important for Your Feet

Stretching the feet is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns with your feet consult with Dr. George Yarnell from Pennsylvania. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Stretching the Feet

Stretching the muscles in the foot is an important part in any physical activity. Feet that are tight can lead to less flexibility and make you more prone to injury. One of the most common forms of foot pain, plantar fasciitis, can be stretched out to help ease the pain. Stretching can not only ease pain from plantar fasciitis but also prevent it as well. However, it is important to see a podiatrist first to determine if stretching is right for you. Podiatrists can also recommend other ways to stretch your feet. Once you know whether stretching is right for you, here are some excellent stretches you can do.

  • Using a foam roller or any cylindrical object (a water bottle or soda can will do), roll the object under your foot back and forth. You should also exert pressure on the object. Be sure to do this to both feet for a minute. Do this exercise three times each.
  • Similar to the previous exercise, take a ball, such as a tennis ball, and roll it under your foot while seated and exert pressure on it.
  • Grab a resistance band or towel and take a seat. If you are using a towel, fold it length wise. Next put either one between the ball of your foot and heel and pull with both hands on each side towards you. Hold this for 15 seconds and then switch feet. Do this three times for each foot.
  • Finally hold your big toe while crossing one leg over the other. Pull the toe towards you and hold for 15 seconds. Once again do this three times per foot.

It is best to go easy when first stretching your foot and work your way up. If your foot starts hurting, stop exercising to ice and rest the foot. It is advised that you then see a podiatrist for help.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Lansdowne, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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Tuesday, 03 August 2021 00:00

How to Tell if You’ve Broken Your Toe

Any toe on your foot can break from an impact injury or other accident. Pain, inflammation, redness, difficulty walking or wearing a shoe, and blood under the toenail are all symptoms you may experience if you break your toe. In severe cases, your toe may be broken at an angle, or your toes may be numb, tingling, or discolored. Depending upon the severity of the break and which toe is broken, treatment can range from icing, resting and elevating, or buddy-taping to an adjacent toe, to immobilization, splinting, casting, bone realignment, or surgery in the most severe cases. If you believe you may have broken your toe, make an appointment with a podiatrist to professional care to ensure proper healing.

A broken toe can be very painful and lead to complications if not properly fixed. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Dr. George Yarnell from Pennsylvania. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What to Know About a Broken Toe

Although most people try to avoid foot trauma such as banging, stubbing, or dropping heavy objects on their feet, the unfortunate fact is that it is a common occurrence. Given the fact that toes are positioned in front of the feet, they typically sustain the brunt of such trauma. When trauma occurs to a toe, the result can be a painful break (fracture).

Symptoms of a Broken Toe

  • Throbbing pain
  • Swelling
  • Bruising on the skin and toenail
  • The inability to move the toe
  • Toe appears crooked or disfigured
  • Tingling or numbness in the toe

Generally, it is best to stay off of the injured toe with the affected foot elevated.

Severe toe fractures may be treated with a splint, cast, and in some cases, minor surgery. Due to its position and the pressure it endures with daily activity, future complications can occur if the big toe is not properly treated.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Lansdowne, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

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